F1 is undergoing radical changes next season, not only in terms of regulations, new aerodynamics, and engine changes… the new cars will be more complex to drive, and driver skill will be key to getting the most out of them. Fernando Alonso is relishing what could be his last chance to win the World Championship again.
More complicated cars to drive
The new cars for the 2026 season will be more complicated to drive. They will have reduced downforce levels to emphasize efficiency on the straights and wider braking zones to recharge the improved battery, which will combine to make the corners longer and slower. This will mean less grip and lower cornering performance.
Chales Leclerc has been one of the drivers to complain. After testing the car in the simulators, the Monegasque driver confirmed that “the new direction for the drivers is a little less attractive and less enjoyable to drive overall.” He has not been alone, with Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll expressing similar sentiments.
Nikolas Tombazis confirms these changes
For his part, Nikolas Tombazis, director of single-seaters, has also spoken out on the matter, confirming that drivers will not have it as easy as they have had up to now and that they will find it difficult to adapt.
“The drivers are very used to a certain optimal level with how things are now, and any deviation from that will feel strange to them.” “Energy management is significant in the regulations, there’s no doubt about that, but we’ve worked hard with the teams to make that process as transparent as possible for the driver.
”Some drivers have tested previous versions of the regulations. Some have done so more recently. We’ve heard some say positive things, that they don’t feel there’s anything dramatically wrong, and so on.
“There are a lot of corners that are taken flat out today that won’t be anymore, and we think that’s an advantage for driver talent.” “Clearly, if you put a driver in a car with lower cornering performance, it will be very difficult for them to say they prefer it.”
Fernando Alonso, the most experienced driver
And with these changes, experience counts. Fernando Alonso is the most veteran driver on the grid. He has driven all kinds of vehicles, and when he started out in this world, there were hardly any of the driving aids that exist today. In addition, he is one of the few drivers who has competed in different categories of motorsport, and his ability to adapt to change is outstanding.
No matter how much the rules change, the machine will still have a lot to say, but if Aston Martin achieves its goal of having a car that can fight for the top of the standings, Fernando Alonso will be able to show his class regardless of his age. And he is convinced of his chances, and he is not the only one. Many drivers on the grid predict that if the Spaniard is in good shape, he will be one of the big favorites for the upcoming season. With smaller, lighter cars, but with less grip and more instability, the Oviedo native will be able to bring out all the potential he still has in his hands.
F1 wants talent to once again be the deciding factor on the track, rather than the brands. There is no doubt that the car will continue to play a decisive role, but anything that puts the spotlight on the quality of the driver will be beneficial for Fernando Alonso, who likes the new regulations.